Pros:
- No kiln wash (Most glaze drips scrape right off)
- Light weight
- Thin (more room in the kiln)
- They don't warp
- They are strong - won't crack or chip
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Heavy high fire Porcelain pieces can stick to the shelf
Since I use a porcelain blend, I just sprinkle a little Alumina Hydrate on the shelf before loading the ware. Just to be on the safe side.
The light weight shelves made loading the kiln so easy. The dark color makes it easier to view the position of the pots.
The surface of the shelves is a satin finish. To the touch they feel like a coated frying pan surface.
Without these shelves I would need help to load and unload my kiln. I have neck and back problems. I can't lift the big kiln shelves anymore.
I love Advancer Shelves!
* UPDATE: 2/14/2014:
I've been using these shelves for over a year and I've never had a problem with my cone 6 porcelain ware sticking to the shelves. I love, love, love these shelves!
* UPDATE #2: 11/29/2015:
I've been using the shelves for 3 years and I can't ever imagine going back to standard kiln shelves. No problems at all, just awesome performing kiln shelves.
©cindygilliland